A convergent charging method includes determining, by a session management function (SMF), a charging type of a first data flow and a charging type of a second data flow, where the charging type is online charging or offline charging. The method further includes sending, by the SMF, a first message to a charging server using an online-offline convergent charging session based on the charging types of the first data flow and the second data flow, where the first message includes a first online charging request of the first data flow or a first offline charging request of the second data flow, and the online-offline convergent charging session is used to send the first online charging request and the first offline charging request.
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1. A convergent charging method implemented by a session management function, the convergent charging method comprising: determining a first charging type of a first data flow and a second charging type of a second data flow, wherein the first charging type is online charging, and wherein the second charging type is offline charging, and wherein the first data flow and the second data flow are transmitted in a data session; sending, via an online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session, a first message to a charging server based on the first charging type and the second charging type, wherein the first message comprises a first online charging request for the first data flow and a first offline charging request for the second data flow; and receiving, from the charging server via the online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session, a second message comprising first response information for the first online charging request and second response information for the first offline charging request.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for managing data flows with different charging types within a single data session. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of handling online and offline charging separately, which complicates session management and increases processing overhead. The solution involves a session management function that determines the charging type for each data flow within a session, where at least one flow is subject to online charging (real-time billing) and another to offline charging (post-paid billing). The method establishes a unified online-offline charging session for the data session, allowing simultaneous processing of both charging types. A single message is sent to a charging server, containing both an online charging request for the first data flow and an offline charging request for the second data flow. The server responds with a combined message that includes approval or denial for the online request and acknowledgment for the offline request. This approach streamlines charging operations, reduces signaling overhead, and ensures consistent handling of mixed-charging sessions. The invention is applicable in telecommunications networks where different data flows within a session may require distinct billing mechanisms.
2. The convergent charging method of claim 1 , wherein the first online charging request comprises a first quota application of the first data flow, and wherein the first offline charging request comprises first consumption information statistics.
A convergent charging system integrates online and offline charging mechanisms to manage data flows in a communication network. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and billing for data usage in real-time while also maintaining accurate historical records. The method involves processing a first data flow through both online and offline charging systems simultaneously. The online charging system receives a first online charging request that includes a first quota application, which allocates a predefined data usage limit for the data flow. Concurrently, the offline charging system processes a first offline charging request containing first consumption information statistics, which records the actual data usage for billing purposes. This dual-processing approach ensures that real-time usage control is maintained while detailed usage data is collected for post-session analysis. The system dynamically adjusts quotas based on real-time usage statistics, optimizing network resource allocation and preventing overuse. By integrating both charging mechanisms, the system provides a comprehensive solution for accurate billing, efficient resource management, and improved user experience in data-intensive networks.
3. The convergent charging method of claim 2 , wherein the first response information comprises a first quota allocated to the first quota application, and wherein the second response information comprises a processing result of the first consumption information statistics.
A convergent charging method is used in telecommunications or cloud computing systems to manage and allocate resources across multiple applications. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing limited resources, such as bandwidth or computational power, among competing applications while ensuring fair usage and optimal performance. The method involves a system that receives a request from a first application for resource allocation and generates first response information, which includes a first quota allocated to the first application. This quota defines the maximum resources the application can consume. The system also processes consumption information related to the first application, such as usage statistics, and generates second response information containing the processing result of this consumption data. This allows the system to monitor and adjust resource allocation dynamically. The method ensures that applications receive appropriate resource allocations based on their needs and usage patterns, improving system efficiency and fairness. The system may also interact with other applications, applying similar quota management and consumption tracking to maintain balanced resource distribution across the entire network or computing environment.
4. The convergent charging method of claim 2 , further comprising sending a third message to the charging server, wherein the third message comprises at least one of: a second online charging request for the first data flow when a first charging trigger condition of the first data flow is satisfied; or a second offline charging request for the second data flow when a second charging trigger condition of the second data flow is satisfied.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for managing both online and offline charging in a communication network. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently handling different types of data flows with varying charging requirements, ensuring accurate billing and resource allocation. The method involves monitoring data flows within the network, where a first data flow is subject to online charging (real-time billing) and a second data flow is subject to offline charging (post-payment billing). When a first charging trigger condition for the first data flow is met, a second online charging request is sent to a charging server to authorize or deduct charges in real time. Similarly, when a second charging trigger condition for the second data flow is met, a second offline charging request is sent to the charging server to record the usage for later billing. The method ensures that charging requests are dynamically generated based on predefined conditions, allowing for flexible and efficient billing processes. This approach optimizes network resource usage and improves billing accuracy by integrating both online and offline charging mechanisms into a unified system. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where different data flows require distinct charging models, such as in mobile networks or cloud-based services.
5. The convergent charging method of claim 4 , wherein the second online charging request comprises first indication information corresponding to the first data flow, and wherein the first indication information instructs the charging server to perform online charging on the first data flow; and/or wherein the second offline charging request comprises second indication information corresponding to the second data flow, and wherein the second indication information instructs the charging server to perform offline charging on the second data flow.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for telecommunications networks, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing online and offline charging for different data flows in a unified system. The method involves processing charging requests for multiple data flows, where each data flow may require distinct charging mechanisms. Specifically, a second online charging request includes first indication information linked to a first data flow, directing the charging server to apply online charging (real-time billing) to that flow. Similarly, a second offline charging request includes second indication information tied to a second data flow, instructing the charging server to apply offline charging (post-payment billing) to that flow. The method ensures that the charging server correctly identifies and processes each data flow according to its designated charging type, enabling seamless integration of both online and offline charging within the same network infrastructure. This approach optimizes resource utilization and billing accuracy by dynamically associating each data flow with the appropriate charging mechanism based on predefined indicators. The solution is particularly useful in 5G and other advanced networks where diverse services demand flexible charging models.
6. The convergent charging method of claim 4 , wherein the first data flow and the second data flow correspond to a same rating group, wherein the convergent charging method further comprises receiving an instructing message from the charging server, and wherein the instructing message instructs the session management function to send the second online charging request or the second offline charging request.
This technical summary describes a convergent charging method for telecommunications networks, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing charging operations for multiple data flows with the same rating group. The method involves a session management function (SMF) that handles both online and offline charging requests for different data flows. When two or more data flows belong to the same rating group, the SMF receives an instructing message from a charging server, which directs the SMF to send either a second online charging request or a second offline charging request for the second data flow. This ensures consistent and synchronized charging operations across related data flows, improving billing accuracy and reducing redundant processing. The method optimizes resource utilization by leveraging the same rating group to streamline charging decisions, particularly in scenarios where multiple data flows share similar charging parameters. The instructing message from the charging server acts as a control mechanism, allowing dynamic adjustment of charging requests based on real-time network conditions or policy requirements. This approach enhances the efficiency of convergent charging systems by minimizing redundant interactions between the SMF and the charging server while maintaining accurate billing for data services.
7. The convergent charging method of claim 1 , further comprising sending a terminating message to the charging server to request the charging server to terminate the online-offline charging session when online charging and offline charging do not need to be performed.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for telecommunications systems, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing both online and offline charging processes. The method integrates online charging, where real-time payment verification occurs, with offline charging, where usage is recorded and billed later. The system dynamically selects between these modes based on service requirements, user preferences, or network conditions. When neither online nor offline charging is required, the method includes sending a terminating message to the charging server to end the ongoing online-offline charging session. This ensures resources are freed and unnecessary processing is avoided. The method may also involve monitoring charging conditions, switching between charging modes, and coordinating with multiple charging servers to maintain seamless service delivery. The invention optimizes network efficiency by reducing redundant operations and improving resource utilization in convergent billing environments.
8. A convergent charging method implemented by a charging server, the convergent charging method comprising: receiving, via an online-offline charging session corresponding to a data session, a first message from a session management function, wherein the first message comprises a first online charging request for a first data flow and a first offline charging request for a second data flow, and the first data flow and the second data flow are transmitted in the data session; and sending, via the online-offline charging session, a second message to the session management function, wherein the second message comprises first response information of the first online charging request and second response information of the first offline charging request, wherein the first response information comprises a first quota allocated to a first quota application of the first data flow, and wherein the second response information comprises a processing result of consumption information statistics.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for managing both online and offline charging in a data session. The method is implemented by a charging server to handle charging requests for different data flows within the same session. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently processing diverse charging requirements—online for real-time control and offline for post-session billing—while maintaining a unified session. The method involves receiving a first message from a session management function via an online-offline charging session. This message includes a combined online charging request for a first data flow and an offline charging request for a second data flow, both transmitted within the same data session. The charging server processes these requests and sends a second message back to the session management function. This response includes first response information for the online request, which allocates a quota to the first data flow, and second response information for the offline request, which provides a processing result of consumption statistics. The method ensures seamless integration of real-time and deferred charging mechanisms, optimizing resource allocation and billing accuracy.
9. The convergent charging method of claim 8 , further comprising receiving, from the session management function, a second online charging request for the first data flow and a second offline charging request for the second data flow.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for managing both online and offline charging in a telecommunications network. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently handling different types of charging requests for data flows within a single session, ensuring accurate billing and resource allocation. The method involves a charging system that processes a first online charging request for a first data flow and a second offline charging request for a second data flow. The system determines whether the first data flow and the second data flow belong to the same session. If they do, the system processes the online charging request for the first data flow while deferring the offline charging request for the second data flow until the session ends. This ensures that the online charging request, which typically requires real-time processing for services like prepaid billing, is handled immediately, while the offline charging request, which can be processed later, is deferred for batch processing. Additionally, the method includes receiving a second online charging request for the first data flow and a second offline charging request for the second data flow. This allows the system to dynamically adjust charging decisions based on ongoing session activity, ensuring accurate and timely billing for all data flows within the session. The method optimizes network resource usage by prioritizing real-time charging while efficiently managing deferred charging requests.
10. The convergent charging method of claim 9 , wherein the second online charging request comprises first indication information corresponding to the first data flow, and wherein the first indication information instructs the charging server to perform online charging on the first data flow, or wherein the second offline charging request comprises second indication information corresponding to the second data flow, and wherein the second indication information instructs the charging server to perform offline charging on the second data flow.
This invention relates to a convergent charging method for telecommunications networks, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing online and offline charging for different data flows in a unified system. The method involves processing charging requests for data flows, where a first data flow is subject to online charging and a second data flow is subject to offline charging. The system generates a second online charging request that includes first indication information corresponding to the first data flow, instructing the charging server to perform online charging specifically for that data flow. Similarly, a second offline charging request includes second indication information corresponding to the second data flow, instructing the charging server to perform offline charging for that data flow. This ensures that each data flow is processed according to its designated charging method, improving accuracy and efficiency in billing and resource management. The method supports dynamic switching between charging modes based on real-time conditions, such as network load or user service requirements, while maintaining clear differentiation between online and offline charging operations. The solution enhances flexibility in charging mechanisms, allowing operators to optimize resource allocation and billing processes for diverse network services.
11. The convergent charging method of claim 10 , wherein the first data flow and the second data flow correspond to a same rating group, wherein the convergent charging method further comprises sending an instructing message to the session management function, and wherein the instructing message instructs the session management function to send the second online charging request or the second offline charging request.
This invention relates to convergent charging in telecommunications networks, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing charging requests for multiple data flows that belong to the same rating group. In telecommunications systems, different data flows may require charging, but when these flows share the same rating group, processing them separately can lead to inefficiencies. The invention provides a solution by enabling a convergent charging method that consolidates charging requests for such flows. The method involves a first data flow and a second data flow that belong to the same rating group. When a charging request is needed for the second data flow, the method includes sending an instructing message to a session management function. This message directs the session management function to generate either an online charging request or an offline charging request for the second data flow. By consolidating the charging process for flows in the same rating group, the method reduces redundant processing and improves system efficiency. The session management function ensures that the appropriate charging request is sent based on the instructing message, streamlining the overall charging workflow. This approach optimizes resource usage and enhances the performance of the charging system in telecommunications networks.
12. A session management function, comprising: a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor and storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to be configured to: determine a first charging type of a first data flow and a second charging type of a second data flow, wherein the first charging type is online charging and the second charging type is offline charging, and wherein the first data flow and the second data flow are transmitted in a data session; send, via an online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session, a first message to a charging server based on the first charging type and the second charging type, wherein the first message comprises a first online charging request for the first data flow and a first offline charging request for the second data flow to a charging server; and receive via the online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session, from the charging server, a second message comprising first response information for the first online charging request and second response information for the first offline charging request from the charging server.
This invention relates to session management in telecommunications, specifically for handling data flows with different charging types within a single data session. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of managing separate charging sessions for online and offline billing within the same data session, which can lead to increased latency and resource consumption. The system includes a processor and memory storing instructions to execute a session management function. The function determines the charging types of multiple data flows within a single session, where at least one flow requires online charging (real-time billing) and another requires offline charging (post-session billing). The system establishes a unified online-offline charging session for the entire data session, allowing simultaneous handling of both charging types. It sends a combined message to a charging server, containing both an online charging request for the real-time flow and an offline charging request for the deferred flow. The server processes both requests and returns a combined response with results for each charging type. This approach reduces session overhead and improves efficiency by consolidating charging operations into a single session.
13. The session management function of claim 12 , wherein the first online charging request comprises a first quota application of the first data flow, and wherein the first offline charging request comprises consumption information statistics.
This invention relates to session management in telecommunications networks, specifically addressing the need for efficient handling of online and offline charging processes for data flows. The system involves a session management function that processes charging requests for data flows between a user device and a network. The function receives a first online charging request, which includes a quota application for a first data flow, allowing the network to allocate and monitor usage limits in real-time. Simultaneously, the function processes a first offline charging request, which contains consumption information statistics, enabling post-session billing and accounting. The offline charging request may include details such as data volume, duration, or other usage metrics collected during the session. The session management function ensures that both real-time and deferred charging mechanisms are integrated, providing flexibility in billing and resource management. This approach optimizes network efficiency by dynamically adjusting quotas based on real-time usage while maintaining accurate records for later billing. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where both immediate usage control and detailed post-session analysis are required, such as in mobile data services or enterprise network environments. The system may also support multiple data flows, each with distinct charging requirements, ensuring comprehensive and adaptable charging management.
14. The session management function of claim 13 , wherein the first response information comprises a first quota allocated to the first quota application, and wherein the second response information comprises a processing result of the consumption information statistics.
This invention relates to session management in a networked system, particularly for managing resource allocation and consumption tracking for applications. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently distributing and monitoring resource quotas across multiple applications while ensuring accurate tracking of resource usage. The session management function operates within a network environment where applications request and consume resources. It generates response information for applications based on their resource requests. The first response information includes a quota allocation for a specific application, defining the maximum resources it can consume. The second response information provides a processing result of consumption statistics, summarizing how much of the allocated quota has been used by the application. This allows the system to dynamically adjust resource distribution and enforce usage limits. The session management function interacts with a quota management module to allocate and track resource quotas. It also processes consumption data to generate usage reports, enabling real-time monitoring and control of resource allocation. The system ensures fair distribution of resources while preventing overconsumption by individual applications. This approach is particularly useful in cloud computing, virtualized environments, and multi-tenant systems where resource sharing and monitoring are critical.
15. The session management function of claim 13 , wherein the instructions further cause the processor to be configured to: send a second online charging request for the first data flow to the charging server via the online-offline charging session when a first charging trigger condition of the first data flow is satisfied; and/or send a second offline charging request for the second data flow to the charging server via the online-offline charging session when a second charging trigger condition of the second data flow is satisfied.
This invention relates to a session management function for handling online and offline charging in a communication network. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible charging mechanisms that can process both online and offline charging requests within a unified session, reducing complexity and improving resource utilization. The session management function is configured to manage an online-offline charging session that supports both online and offline charging for different data flows. The function establishes a charging session with a charging server, where the session can handle multiple data flows with distinct charging requirements. For a first data flow, the function sends a second online charging request to the charging server via the online-offline charging session when a first charging trigger condition is met. Similarly, for a second data flow, the function sends a second offline charging request to the charging server via the same session when a second charging trigger condition is satisfied. This allows dynamic switching between online and offline charging modes based on predefined conditions, ensuring accurate billing and resource management. The solution optimizes network performance by consolidating charging operations within a single session, reducing overhead and improving scalability.
16. The session management function of claim 15 , wherein the second online charging request further comprises first indication information corresponding to the first data flow, and wherein the first indication information instructs the charging server to perform online charging on the first data flow, and/or wherein the second offline charging request comprises second indication information corresponding to the second data flow, and wherein the second indication information instructs the charging server to perform offline charging on the second data flow.
This invention relates to session management in telecommunications networks, specifically for handling online and offline charging for different data flows within a user session. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently manage charging mechanisms for distinct data flows, ensuring accurate billing while optimizing network resources. The invention involves a session management function that processes charging requests for multiple data flows within a single user session. For a first data flow, the session management function generates a second online charging request that includes first indication information. This information instructs a charging server to apply online charging, where charges are deducted in real-time from a user's prepaid account. For a second data flow, the session management function generates a second offline charging request containing second indication information, directing the charging server to apply offline charging, where charges are recorded and billed later. The system ensures that each data flow is charged according to its specific requirements, improving billing accuracy and network efficiency. The invention also supports dynamic switching between charging methods based on network conditions or user preferences.
17. The session management function of claim 15 , wherein the first data flow and the second data flow correspond to a same rating group, wherein the instructions cause the processor to be further configured to receive an instructing message from the charging server, and wherein the instructing message instructs the session management function to send the second online charging request or the second offline charging request.
This invention relates to session management in telecommunications networks, specifically for handling data flows with different charging requirements. The problem addressed is efficiently managing multiple data flows that belong to the same rating group but may require different charging mechanisms, such as online or offline charging. The invention ensures that charging requests are properly routed and processed based on instructions from a charging server. The session management function monitors data flows and identifies those belonging to the same rating group. When a data flow requires charging, the function determines whether to send an online or offline charging request. The decision is influenced by an instructing message received from the charging server, which specifies whether the second data flow should trigger an online or offline charging request. This allows dynamic control over charging mechanisms based on network conditions or policy decisions. The invention ensures that data flows within the same rating group are consistently charged according to the instructions provided by the charging server, improving efficiency and compliance with billing policies. The solution is particularly useful in networks where different charging methods must be applied to data flows that share the same rating criteria.
18. A charging server, comprising: a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor and storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to be configured to: receive via an online-offline charging session corresponding to a data session, a first message from a session management function, wherein the first message comprises a first online charging request for a first data flow and a first offline charging request for a second data flow from a session management function, wherein the first data flow and the second data flow are transmitted in the data session; and send, via the online-offline charging session, a second message to the session management function, wherein the second message comprises first response information for the first online charging request and second response information for the first offline charging request to the session management function, wherein the first response information comprises a first quota allocated to a first quota application of the first data flow, and wherein the second response information comprises a processing result of consumption information statistics.
A charging server system is designed to manage both online and offline charging for data sessions in a communication network. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently handling different types of charging requests within a single data session, ensuring accurate billing and resource allocation. The server includes a processor and memory storing instructions that enable it to process combined online and offline charging requests from a session management function. During operation, the server receives a message containing both an online charging request for a first data flow and an offline charging request for a second data flow, both transmitted within the same data session. The server then generates and sends a response message that includes a quota allocation for the online charging request and a processing result for the offline charging request. The quota allocation specifies a data limit for the first data flow, while the processing result reflects the statistical analysis of consumption data for the second data flow. This approach streamlines charging operations by consolidating different charging mechanisms into a unified session, improving efficiency and reducing complexity in network billing systems.
19. The charging server of claim 18 , wherein the instructions further cause the processor to be configured to receive, via the online-offline charging session, a second online charging request for the first data flow and a second offline charging request for the second data flow from the session management function.
This invention relates to a charging server in a telecommunications network, specifically for handling both online and offline charging for different data flows in a communication session. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently manage charging processes for multiple data flows within a single session, ensuring accurate billing and resource allocation. The charging server is configured to establish an online-offline charging session with a session management function, which manages communication sessions for user devices. The server processes an initial online charging request for a first data flow and an initial offline charging request for a second data flow, applying appropriate charging rules to each. The server also handles subsequent charging requests, including a second online charging request for the first data flow and a second offline charging request for the second data flow, ensuring continuous and accurate billing. The invention improves charging efficiency by dynamically managing multiple data flows within a single session, reducing the need for separate charging sessions and minimizing billing discrepancies. The charging server's ability to process both online and offline requests in parallel ensures real-time billing for time-sensitive data flows while deferring billing for less critical data flows. This approach optimizes network resource usage and enhances billing accuracy in telecommunications networks.
20. A convergent charging method, comprising: determining, by a session management function, a first charging type of a first data flow and a second charging type of a second data flow, wherein the first charging type is online charging, wherein the second charging type is offline charging, and wherein the first data flow and the second data flow are transmitted in a data session; sending, by the session management function via an online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session, a first message to a charging server based on the first charging type and the second charging type, wherein the first message comprises a first online charging request for the first data flow and a first offline charging request for the second data flow; and sending, by the charging server to the session management function via the online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session, a second message comprising first response information for the first online charging request and second response information for the first offline charging request to the charging server.
The invention relates to a convergent charging method for managing both online and offline charging within a single data session in a telecommunications network. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently handle different charging types (online and offline) for multiple data flows within the same session, ensuring seamless integration and proper billing. The method involves a session management function that identifies the charging types for different data flows in a session. For example, a first data flow may require online charging (real-time billing), while a second data flow may require offline charging (post-paid billing). The session management function establishes an online-offline charging session corresponding to the data session and sends a combined message to a charging server. This message includes both an online charging request for the first data flow and an offline charging request for the second data flow. The charging server processes these requests and sends back a response message containing the results for both the online and offline charging requests. This approach allows for unified handling of mixed charging types within a single session, improving efficiency and reducing complexity in billing systems.
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December 1, 2020
March 8, 2022
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